Police searching for victims of alleged scam artist

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Carnell Dewayne Ruteledge

Police searching for victims of alleged scam artist

Carnell Dewayne Ruteledge

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Sep. 1, 2015)– On August 22, police arrested a man in Ft. Wayne on charges of corrupt business influence and theft. The man is accused of defrauding an Indianapolis woman out of more than $128,000 after meeting her on an online dating site.

Investigators say Carnelle Dewayne Ruteledge met the victim on an online dating site called “Plenty of Fish.” He is accused of pretending to be a sports agent and stealing the victim’s money in a four-month period between September and December 2011.

He allegedly told the woman the money was used for purposes that involved high-profile sports figures like NBA player Zach Randolph and Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck. Police say Rutledge told the victim that she would be repaid.

Individuals with the names of Damon Bryant and Debra Thomas may also be involved.

Anyone with information regarding potential victims who may have been defrauded through this alleged scam or similar activity is asked to contact Sergeant Jack W. Bedan, of the Indiana State Police at (317) 232-6867.